Guyanese Wedding Traditions
Guyana is a nation state located on the mainland of South America. English is the official language. In addition, Amerindian languages such as Arawak, Macushi, Akawaio and Wai-Wai are spoken. A small minority speak Guyanese Creole, which is English with Afro-Indian dialects and syntax. There is no standardized grammar in Guyana. In Guyanese wedding celebrations, African heritage can be seen. This is especially the case during Black History Month and the Emancipation anniversary. However, this seemingly rich cultural heritage has a variety of misconceptions and a degree of superficiality.
Their meaning from an African setting has a much broader meaning as these are seen as artistic performances or as cultural shows that offer theatrical performances, with a variety of dance, music and drama. Therefore, these and other celebrations are seen as artistic displays that are never taken seriously, unlike Toronto weddings. They do not cover the ways of life of the people in their dress, agriculture or manners. Cultural traditions have drastically faded and many people are now unaware of the symbolism where they are displayed.
Just like nuptials in Toronto, kitchens are a must. It is common to have Guyanese cuisines at weddings. One of the delicacies of Guiana is the pepper pot. The dish has been around for generations and many like it. Therefore, it is not surprising that it is part of the wedding traditions of Guyana. The dish is served with crusty yucca bread. Duck curry is another traditional Guyanese wedding food. Also, at events you can find fried rice, puri and chowmein. Just like in Toronto, a traditional wedding in Guyana will usually take place in a church. Alternatively, it can also be done at home. A home marriage ceremony is usually performed by Guyanese who live far away or outside of Guyana to give them the freedom to enjoy an authentic Guyanese atmosphere. A backyard will usually do it.
After meals, guests are invited to participate in the Guiana dances. Guyanese music has maintained traditional elements from Africa, India, and Europe and this mixture of native elements has become important in influencing Caribbean, Brazilian, and American music. As in Toronto, popular musicals are usually played at wedding ceremonies while the Guyanese couple dances. However, recently many weddings in Guyana have hired live bands to play traditional songs. These bands use traditional woodwinds, prominent horns, and other instruments that have been replaced by string instruments.
Many bands in Guyana are talented enough to entertain the audience with authentic Guyanese traditional music. One of the most popular music in Guyana is Calypso. This type of music is played in a lyrically oriented satirical style at wedding celebrations. It will usually be accompanied by traditional musical instruments such as sitar, harmonium, dholak, tabla, dhantal, and tassa drums. Most of this music can also be based on Hindu songs called filmi or bhajans. One of the traditions that has been kept is called bronze singing, which is a unique singing style found among the native Guyanese of the Indian community. Obviously, Guyanese wedding traditions have lost much of their authenticity, but they continue to be unique celebrations in our world today.